While going to a smaller school often gets players looked over, talent always has a way of finding its way into the right hands. Old Dominion edge rusher, Oshane Ximines, is a perfect example of how an underrated player can make his way to the NFL. The New York Giants drafted him in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft.
The fact of the matter is – Ximines was an anticipated late round pick. The Giants had him graded as a second-round talent but managed to grab him in the third. He’s a strong and agile pass rusher that will provide a uniquely strong fundamental play-style from a smaller school. He’s the first player to ever be drafted out of Old Dominion.
What are the New York Giants getting in Oshane Ximines?
Ximines has the natural instincts to succeed at the next level, the question is – can he adapt to the increased physicality and speed of the NFL?
General manager Dave Gettleman thinks so:
“He has legitimate counter pass rushing ability, counter pass rushing moves,†Gettleman said after the draft. “Most of the kids coming out of college have their move when they come off the ball, or they come of the ball they know what they want to do, and if the tackle thwarts them, they don’t know what to do. They’re not power rushers, they get stuck. Oshane can counter punch.â€
Oshane has a diverse array of skills and moves, something most prospects don’t have coming out of college. He has developed counters and more advanced abilities to help him succeed at the next level.
Over the course of his collegiate career, he racked up an impressive 32.5 sacks, 11.5 of which came last season in his senior year. He also earned 18 tackles for a loss. Now, while these numbers stand out, they don’t scream success. The teams Ximines played against at Old Dominion won’t even resemble the quality he will face in the NFL.
It will likely take some time to adjust, but there’s no question he has the drive to reach his potential.